In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is crucial for professional success, yet it is often overlooked. Understanding its importance in the workplace is essential for personal well-being and long-term achievement. Mashi Epting, a seasoned business professional with a background in healthcare and entrepreneurship, offers valuable insights on how mental health impacts professional journeys.
Mashi’s journey began early. As a young mother, she was determined to succeed and provide a better future for her family. Balancing her responsibilities while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams, she faced challenges that led to significant growth and self-discovery. Over the years, Mashi Epting built an impressive portfolio of ventures, including Complete Treatment, Complete Taxes, and Complete Tax and Training Software.
Understanding Mental Health With Her
Mashi emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health for sustained professional success. “In the hustle and bustle of professional life, mental health often takes a back seat. However, understanding and prioritizing mental health is crucial,” she says. Neglecting mental health can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and strained relationships. Mashi shares, “In my early career, I faced immense pressure and stress. It wasn’t until I started prioritizing my mental health that I saw a significant improvement.”
From her experience, Mashi advises that addressing mental health issues is necessary for building resilience. She often sees professionals grappling with stress and anxiety, affecting their decision-making and leadership abilities. “Taking care of your mental health is essential for effective leadership,” she asserts.
Mashi highlights recent research from UKG, revealing that 8 out of 10 managers feel burned out, making them the most affected group. “I’ve worked with many individuals on the brink of burnout,” she says. “Without addressing these challenges, their professional growth would stall.”
Build A Relationship
Mashi suggests identifying and nurturing your relationship with your “key executive” or right-hand person to alleviate stressors that contribute to leader burnout. “Two heads are better than one,” she emphasizes. Strengthening this relationship and establishing effective communication and work protocols is crucial. “Having a trusted adviser means you have someone to offload tasks to and create strategies with when feeling overwhelmed,” Mashi advises.
Practice Self-Compassion
High achievers often tend to be their own harshest critics. Mashi emphasizes that practicing self-compassion—speaking to yourself with kindness—can be far more effective. “When we treat ourselves with the same compassion we would offer a close friend, it improves our relationship with ourselves and enhances our ability to connect with our team and stakeholders,” she explains. Acceptance is also crucial. “Understanding what you can and cannot control allows you to focus on what truly matters,” Mashi advises.
Creating a Supportive Work Environment
A supportive work environment is vital for maintaining mental health. Mashi believes leaders should foster a culture that prioritizes well-being. “Creating an open and supportive atmosphere where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health is vital,” she asserts. In her companies, she implements policies that promote mental health, such as flexible working hours and mental health days, and encourages team-building activities and open communication. “When employees feel supported, their productivity and job satisfaction improve,” she explains.
Give Mentorship a Chance
Mentorship can profoundly impact mental health. Mashi has experienced this firsthand, both as a mentee and a mentor. “Mentors provide a sounding board and a source of encouragement,” she says. “They can offer guidance during tough times and help mentees navigate challenges more effectively.” Mashi recalls witnessing a team member display extraordinary leadership skills during a critical project, reinforcing her belief in mentorship’s importance.
Studies show that good mental health enhances cognitive function, creativity, and emotional intelligence—key attributes for professional success. Mashi encourages professionals to seek support from mentors, counselors, or therapists. “There’s immense value in talking to someone who understands your struggles and can offer constructive advice,” she notes.
